Kumaratunga: Reconciliation will bridge Tamil-Sinhalese gap

Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga states that Bridging the gulf that divides the Tamil and Sinhalese population in Sri Lanka is essential for the wellbeing of the country.

Former President Kumaratunga, who was on a private visit to Kerala, told The Hindu that she was involved in the national unity and reconciliation initiative being undertaken by the present government as part of confidence-building measures.

The former president said that the reconciliation exercise would go a long way in establishing harmony.

Recalling that there was a time when her life was under threat, Kumaratunga said her phones were tapped and the house was watched.

She said The ruling alliance is a unique experiment in Asia, as parties with opposing programmes have come together.

She added that Members of former extremist groups, who have given up violence, have also joined the system.